SINGAPORE

In a breakthrough for American trade negotiators, Singapore recently relaxed its ban on chewing gum, imposed a dozen years ago for the sake of tidiness. Singaporeans now can lawfully buy 'medicinal' gum - including Nicorette and, on the theory that it promotes dental hygiene, Wrigley's sugar-free Orbit - but only in pharmacies, and only after showing identification.

A pharmacist convicted of selling unregistered gum, the Associated Press reports, can be jailed for two years. According to Singapore newspapers, street cleaners there are grumbling about wads of gum defacing sidewalks and pavementWilson Quarterly, Summer 2004

Live snake meat is readily available in Singapore, Hong Kong and Taiwan. Sautéed snake meat and snake soup are said to ward off common colds, and generally healthy.